Rugby sevens: NZ women claim China title

New Zealand players celebrate after winning the Chinese leg of the IRB Women's sevens series. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand moved to top spot on the IRB Women's Sevens World Series after claiming victory at the China 7s in Guangzhou on Sunday.

In the pouring rain and difficult conditions in south east China, New Zealand defeated Australia 26-12 in another great battle between the two rivals.

New Zealand now go top of the series standings, with just one round left to play next month in Amsterdam. New Zealand had a point to prove following the last round in Brazil, when Australia beat them in the final.

Captain Huriana Manuel was delighted with the win, after defeating France and Fiji on the way to the last match of the day.

"I'm so proud of the girls. We worked so hard and the conditions were really tough out there."

"We really wanted to concentrate on our defence this weekend because we weren't happy with it after Brazil. It worked well. On to the next tournament now," said the captain.

Canada finished the tournament in third place after beating Fiji in the final, with Jen Kish's team beating a side that surprised many this weekend, claiming wins over England and Russia.

Ireland beat hosts China to win the bowl final while England claimed the plate final at the University Town Stadium, easily beating France.

New Zealand's Portia Woodman also claimed an IRB Women's Sevens World Series record this weekend, when she became the first player to score 12 tries in one round of the Series. The record was previously held by her teammate, Kayla McAllister.

The core teams now have a break until next month in Amsterdam, where a series champion will be crowned.